Bank Promotes Adopting from Orphans of the Storm

The Ruth Fell Wander Community Art Wall at the First Bank Highland Park is used to support a different non-profit or good cause every month. This month, the exhibit is being used to not only help an organization that saves pets, but ideally to provide some with the gift of love this Valentine’s Day.

Titled “Puppy Love and Kitty Kisses” - a photo array of older pets available to adopt from Orphans of the Storm, an animal shelter in Riverwoods, grazes the wall during the month of February with paper cutouts of candy hearts available to pin on each dog or cat to indicate they’ve now been adopted.

“It is very generous of the bank to allow us to have the wall this month,” said Jackie Borchew, director of development and communications for the nonprofit. “It is a great way to get local patrons aware of the shelter, which is the only one in the area.”

More than 100 bank customers and members of the community attended an after-hours party at the location on February 4.

“It was quite a nice turnout,” said Randy Green, president and CEO of First Bank Highland Park. “I’m very pleased to host this reception and continue our support of Orphans of the Storm.”

Guests contributed to the shelter’s wish list and enjoyed snacks and champagne while chatting about their common love of pets.

“I’m a dog lover, and it’s wonderful to see others who are passionate about realize how important that extra family member is to you,” said Bobbie McWeeney, a resident of Lincolnshire.

Among the attendees were two of the canines available at the shelter, Capone - a two-year-old beagle and Jezzie Belle, a three-year-old hound mix.

The two represent a number of shelter animals that would make great pets.

“Why support pet stores and puppy mills when there are great pets here who are already house-broken and good with kids,” said Borchew, adding that many of them have already been pets and were displaced due to a variety of unfortunate circumstances.

More than 100 dogs and 350 cats are available at the shelter. The adoption fee is $90, with all shots being included for less than $300.